You must have proof of language proficiency to fly accross borders. In European countries the acceptable languages can be found in the nation's AIP.
English is usually the accepted default language,, but check. (Example arriving at lunchtime it can be the case that the airport is closed to persons who cannot speak the local language. Be honest with youself in your assement of your abilty to speak Spanish, French, Latvian, Swedish etceteras.
For most countries, you must provide proof that your language abilities meet ICAO requirements. For UK issued licences, this means you must demonstrate proficiency in English.
Language proficiency is assessed on a scale of 1 to 6, with Level 6 being the standard of an expert speaker of the language.
The international Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) requires the minimum standard for a licence holder to be Level 4
( in the accepted international language for the nation or airport (Commonly this is English)
If your mother tongue is English, you will probably have been be tested on your language skills during your PPL skill test. As long as you are assessed as a Level 6 speaker, the examiner’s report will count as proof of your language proficiency.
Language assessment at an approved language school
You can also have your language proficiency assessed at certain approved language school. This is a big commitemnt for those members of our Club that are not fortunate to be native speakers of English. Well done to all those non anglophone that have achieved Level 4 and beyond.
Although much of the regulation is simple, there are rules and in some cases complexities that you should be aware of before embarking on European flights. The Europa Club is not an authority. We try to cover here what you need to know to travel anywhere in Europe in your plane. The information is to the best of our knowledge correct and up to date, but it is offered without guarantee and the Europa Club will not be held responsible for any problems you may encounter. After being inspired you must independently verify that the shared information is correct.
